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Which Buccaneers’ Draftees Will Make the 2016 Roster?

By Alan Schechter

Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter speaks to the media during the NFL scouting combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter speaks to the media during the NFL scouting combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 28, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad fullback Dan Vitale of Northwestern (40) pulls in a pass in a drill during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 28, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; South squad fullback Dan Vitale of Northwestern (40) pulls in a pass in a drill during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports /

Dan Vitale

With the final pick of the draft, the Bucs went with the “super back”.  The Bucs haven’t had a fullback of note since Mike Alstott.  Could Vitale be the guy?  It’s possible.  With 135 receptions, over 1,400 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns, Tampa will see a threat out of the backfield that they haven’t in a long time.  Between Dan and Charles Sims, Tampa could have a one-two receiving duo out of the running back position.

Next: A Deeper Look at Noah Spence

He may need a bit more bulk to be a lead blocker, as you typically see fullbacks in the 240-250 pound range to take the pounding.  By contrast, Vitale weighs in at 235 pounds.  He may not have the weight, but he has the desire, as Zach Sauers noted from his draft profile that Vitale has no hesitation about taking blocking head on.

Bucs’ fans are going to love this guy.

Roster Result: Stays

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